Please note: Kliniek het Bolwerk does not carry out this treatment
Ultrasonic liposuction is not performed at Kliniek het Bolwerk. This treatment falls outside the clinic's range of treatments and is not one of the cosmetic or surgical procedures available.
For ultrasonic liposuction you can go to other specialised clinics that do offer this technique and can give you targeted advice about it.
What is ultrasonic liposuction?
Ultrasonic liposuction is an advanced liposuction technique that optimises traditional fat removal by using ultrasonic energy. The sound waves are delivered into the fatty tissue through a special cannula, where they break down and liquefy the fat cells. This liquefied fat can then be suctioned out more easily using a traditional liposuction cannula. This technique is often used in areas with thicker or more fibrous fatty tissue, such as the back, chest (in men with gynaecomastia) or the areas around the hips.
How does ultrasonic liposuction work?
During an ultrasonic liposuction procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the skin, as in traditional liposuction. An ultrasonic probe that emits sound waves is then inserted into the fatty tissue. These sound waves create vibrations that break down and melt the fat cells, without damaging surrounding tissues such as nerves and blood vessels. The liquefied fat is then suctioned out with a cannula. This method can be carried out under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the size of the area to be treated and the patient's preference.
What are the benefits of ultrasonic liposuction?
Ultrasonic liposuction offers several benefits compared with traditional liposuction:
- More effective in fibrous tissue: the ultrasonic technology makes it easier to remove fat from dense fibrous tissue, which can be more difficult with traditional liposuction.
- Less trauma to surrounding tissues: because the fat is first liquefied, it can be removed more easily and with less force, which can result in less trauma to the surrounding tissues and possibly a faster recovery.
- Improved skin tightness: in some cases ultrasonic liposuction can help tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production, although this effect cannot always be assured.
- More precise contours: the method makes it possible to create more refined and precise body contours, which is particularly useful when treating areas such as the chin, arms or inner thighs.
Risks and considerations
Although ultrasonic liposuction offers many benefits, there are also specific risks and considerations:
- Risk of burns: because the ultrasonic energy generates heat, there is a risk of skin or tissue burns if the procedure is not carried out correctly.
- Longer procedure time: in some cases ultrasonic liposuction can take longer than traditional liposuction, depending on the number and size of the areas to be treated.
- Swelling and bruising: as with any liposuction procedure, swelling and bruising can occur, which can last for several weeks.
- Over time: although the results of ultrasonic liposuction are long-lasting, it is important to maintain a healthy weight to prevent remaining fat cells in the treated areas from growing larger.
Recovery after ultrasonic liposuction
The recovery process after ultrasonic liposuction is very similar to that of traditional liposuction. Patients may experience swelling, bruising and discomfort for a few days to weeks. Wearing compression garments is often recommended to reduce swelling and help the skin adapt to the new contours. Most patients can resume their normal activities after a few days, but strenuous exertion should be avoided for several weeks. The final results of the procedure can be fully visible after a few months, once the swelling has completely gone.
The difference between ultrasonic liposuction and traditional liposuction
The main difference between ultrasonic liposuction and traditional liposuction is the way the fat is removed. In traditional liposuction the fat is removed mechanically and directly, whereas in ultrasonic liposuction the fat is first liquefied with sound waves, making it easier to remove. This makes ultrasonic liposuction particularly suitable for areas with dense fatty tissue or for patients looking for a more refined contour.
Ultrasonic liposuction offers an advanced approach to fat removal, especially in more difficult areas or for patients aiming for a more precise contour. Although it carries risks, this technique can, when performed by an experienced surgeon, deliver excellent results with an improved recovery process.
